HEMORRHOID BANDING
Hemorrhoid Banding
Overview
Hemorrhoids
are veins around the anus or lower rectum that have become swollen and inflamed. Hemorrhoids
can happen either inside the anus (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). They are common in both men and women. In fact, hemorrhoids
are so common that about half of all people will have them at some point by the time they turn 50. They can result from straining to have a bowel movement. Other factors that can lead to hemorrhoids
are pregnancy, obesity, aging and chronic constipation or diarrhea.
If your hemorrhoids
are highly symptomatic (bleeding), your doctor may recommend hemorrhoid banding. Hemorrhoid banding is a non-surgical and non-invasive, in-office procedure. During this procedure, the doctor will place a rubber band around the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply, causing it to wither.
Preparing for Hemorrhoid Banding
Several days before the banding procedure, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen or any other drugs that make it more difficult for blood to clot. Plan for your recovery and care after the procedure and follow any instructions provided by the health care provider.
What happens during Hemorrhoid Banding
Hemorrhoid banding takes about five minutes. During the procedure, the doctor will place a tube-like instrument into your anus in order to examine it. He or she will then put a small, tight band around the hemorrhoid so it can dry up and fall off. The hemorrhoids
will fall off about a week or so after the procedure. Usually it takes two or more treatments to eradicate the problem.
Recovery occurs the same day after the procedure. You may experience some discomfort. The doctor will advise you about recovery and when to come back for a checkup.
Preventing Hemorrhoids
The best way to prevent hemorrhoids
is with regular, healthy stools. Stools that can pass easily decrease pressure and straining, which are both risk factors for hemorrhoids. Also, be sure to empty your bowels as soon as possible after the urge occurs.
Lifestyle changes can also help prevent hemorrhoids. Adding exercise to your routine, walking regularly, increasing dietary fiber intake and drinking plenty of water are all ways to help produce soft and easy-to-pass stools.